Military Government Criminalises Same-Sex Relations
Niger’s military-led government has enacted a new law criminalising same-sex relations, marking a significant shift in the country’s legal framework.
Verified reports show that the new legislation introduces prison sentences ranging from five to 10 years, along with fines for those found guilty.
Previously, same-sex relationships were not explicitly criminalised in Niger, although they were widely stigmatized in the conservative, Muslim-majority country.
The move aligns Niger with a growing number of West African nations tightening laws against LGBTQ+ activities, reflecting a broader regional trend toward stricter legislation.
The development has drawn attention from rights observers, as the country—currently under military rule following a 2023 coup—continues to implement sweeping legal and political reforms.
